Quick wins for a faster PC:
Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Yes, you can start with Zone of the Enders: The 2nd Runner—M∀RS without finishing the first game. It is a fast, cinematic 3D robot-action sequel set in 2174, where you pilot the Orbital Frame Jehuty against BAHRAM. The first Zone of the Enders provides series context, but the available official material does not establish it as a prerequisite for following the sequel.
The most important buying decision is not whether you need the original game; it is which version and display setup suit you. M∀RS is documented for PlayStation 4 and PC through Steam, with optional VR support, a single-player campaign, and a separate two-player Versus mode.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
What is Zone of the Enders: The 2nd Runner—M∀RS?
The 2nd Runner is the sequel to the PlayStation 2 game Zone of the Enders. The M∀RS edition is a remaster of the 2003 sequel, based on the HD version. Konami Digital Entertainment described it this way in its May 15, 2018 release announcement: “ZONE OF THE ENDERS: The 2nd RUNNER – M∀RS is the remaster of the original title with beautifully enhanced graphics and re-engineered audio made for next-generation consoles and PCs.”
PC Slower Than It Used to Be?
A free scan shows the junk files, broken settings and background clutter dragging Windows down - then fixes them in one click.Free scan · Windows 10 & 11Outdated Drivers Are Slowing You Down
One free scan finds every outdated or missing driver and matches the right update for your exact hardware.Free scan · exact hardware matchThe setting is the year 2174. BAHRAM uses Orbital Frame robot technology to exert control over Mars and Earth, and the player pilots Jehuty against that military organization. That premise gives you the essential conflict before you start; you do not need to know every event from the first game to understand that Jehuty is the machine at the center of the action and BAHRAM is the opposing force.
#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
M∀RS launched in the Americas on September 4, 2018, and globally on September 6, 2018, according to Konami’s launch announcements. Those dates identify the release history, not current store availability or pricing.
Do you need to play the first game first?
No formal completion requirement is documented. The sources establish that The 2nd Runner follows the original PlayStation 2 game, but they do not state that newcomers must finish the first title to follow the sequel. Treat the original as optional background rather than required preparation.
What the first game can add
- Familiarity with the setting and the idea of Orbital Frames.
- More context for the series’ conflict before you meet Jehuty in the sequel.
- A point of comparison for how the remastered sequel looks, sounds and controls.
What you should not assume
Official material available for this edition does not provide a complete recap or promise that every continuity detail is re-explained. If you care about story chronology, you can play the original first; if your priority is the sequel’s high-speed combat, starting with M∀RS is a reasonable route. The evidence supports “optional context,” not “mandatory homework.”
The Tool Desk
Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →How the combat actually plays
Konami characterizes the game as a fast-paced, high-speed 3D robot-action title. Jehuty is not a slow, cover-based tank. Combat is built around movement in three dimensions and switching between close and long range as situations change.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Core tools
- Melee attacks: close-range strikes for enemies you can reach directly.
- Ranged attacks: attacks that let you engage targets from a distance.
- Sub-weapons: additional offensive options beyond Jehuty’s primary attacks.
- Mobility: rapid movement is central to avoiding threats and closing distance.
- Shields: a defensive option when evasion alone is not enough.
- Teleportation: a movement tool that supports the game’s three-dimensional engagements.
The result is an action game that asks you to manage position, distance and defensive timing while also choosing the appropriate weapon. The official descriptions do not provide a frame-by-frame control guide or a fixed “best” weapon sequence, so expect to learn through practice rather than relying on a single universal combo.
Onboarding and difficulty options
Konami’s launch material lists a Pro Mode controller setup, training modules, a mini-map and a Very Easy setting. Training modules are useful if you are unfamiliar with three-dimensional robot combat or want to test the control layout before committing to the story. The mini-map helps you maintain spatial awareness when enemies and objectives move outside your immediate view.
Very Easy is presented as an available accessibility and onboarding choice. Konami specifically described it as suitable for people who want to focus on the story’s cinematic experience or who are new to VR. Choosing it is not a statement about your ability; it is a way to reduce combat pressure while learning movement and the camera.
What M∀RS changes compared with the original release
M∀RS is the remastered version rather than a new sequel. Its headline upgrades are 4K visuals and remastered or re-engineered audio for contemporary consoles and PCs. The edition is based on the HD version, so the distinction is enhancement and presentation, not a new campaign.
Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Optional VR features
VR is an additional way to experience M∀RS, not a requirement for the standard game. The documented configurations are:
- PlayStation 4 with PlayStation VR.
- Steam/PC with Oculus or HTC Vive.
VR-specific additions include a 3D hangar, a 3D model viewer and a cinematic theater for revisiting story sequences. These features make VR attractive if you want to inspect Jehuty and other models or watch scenes in a dedicated virtual space. They do not turn the campaign into a two-player VR experience.
The standard PS4 and PC versions are documented without a headset prerequisite. If you buy the game for a conventional television or monitor, you can play without owning VR hardware.
PS4 or Steam PC: which version fits?
| Decision point | PS4 edition | Steam PC edition |
|---|---|---|
| Display options | Standard PS4 display; optional PlayStation VR | Standard PC display; optional Oculus or HTC Vive support |
| Internet requirement | Konami support says the game can be played without an online connection | Internet connection required for initial startup; Steam says it can then be played offline |
| Controller | PlayStation 4 controller setup | Steam listing specifies an XInput controller |
| Campaign | Single-player | Single-player |
| Two-player mode | Versus mode; VR does not support two players | Versus mode; VR does not support two players |
| Visual target | Remastered presentation, with 4K support advertised | Remastered presentation, with 4K support advertised |
| Language availability | Check the local listing | Steam distinguishes regional audio and subtitle availability; check your local listing |
Choose PS4 if you want a console setup, already own compatible PlayStation hardware or specifically want PlayStation VR. Choose Steam if you prefer PC settings, already have an XInput controller and meet the published graphics requirements. Neither documented edition makes VR mandatory.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
PC requirements and connection details
The Steam listing gives a minimum configuration of 64-bit Windows, 4 GB of RAM and a GeForce GTX 680. It lists higher recommended specifications, but the exact recommended processor and graphics combination should be checked on the current storefront page before purchase. Steam’s note says the recommended requirements assume a 1920×1080 display.
For proper VR performance, the listing says to use a GeForce GTX 1060 or higher. That is a VR-performance guideline, not a claim that a GTX 1060 is required for ordinary monitor play.
Before installing on PC
- Confirm that your system is running a supported 64-bit version of Windows.
- Check that your graphics card meets at least the listed GeForce GTX 680 minimum for standard play; use the GTX 1060-or-higher guidance if you intend to play in VR.
- Connect an XInput-compatible controller. The Steam listing specifically calls for XInput, so do not assume every generic gamepad will work correctly.
- Review the current Steam page for storage, operating-system and regional language details. The supplied specifications do not state a storage number, and storefront requirements can change.
- Plan for an internet connection on the first launch. After Steam completes that initial startup requirement, the listing says offline play is supported.
Because PC support and storefront metadata are volatile, verify the current listing and your operating-system compatibility on the day you buy. The published numbers are storefront requirements, not an independent performance benchmark.
Modes: campaign, Versus and VR limitations
Single-player campaign
The story campaign is single-player. Do not purchase M∀RS expecting campaign co-op; the documented material does not describe a cooperative story mode.
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
Versus mode
Steam lists shared or split-screen PvP, and Cygames’ announcement states that only Versus mode supports two players. This is the appropriate mode if you want a second local participant. The statement “only Versus mode” matters: it excludes the campaign from two-player play.
VR and two-player play
VR does not support two players. You can use VR for the documented hangar, model-viewer and cinematic features and for the supported game experience, but you should not combine it with an expectation of two-player VR matches.
Physical PS4 copies and digital purchases
Konami documented a physical PS4 release. Its May 15, 2018 announcement said that, for a limited time, the physical edition in the Americas (excluding Brazil) included a holographic cover and an embroidered triangle patch. That is historical launch information. It does not guarantee that a current new or used listing contains either item, and current inventory, prices and sellers were not established.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
A digital Steam purchase avoids disc availability and gives you the PC version’s installation and offline-after-first-start behavior. A physical PS4 copy may suit collectors or players who prefer console media, but inspect the actual listing and region before assuming that launch packaging or bonuses are present.
Languages and regional availability
Steam’s listing distinguishes regional releases and audio/subtitle language support. Localization and availability can vary by storefront region, so open the local store page rather than relying on a language list copied from another country. The same caution applies to physical PS4 editions: a disc or package sold in one market may not match the language options or availability in another.
A practical first-session plan
- Pick your display first. Decide whether you want a normal television or monitor, or the optional VR presentation. Do not buy a headset solely to make the standard campaign work.
- Choose the platform around your existing equipment. PS4 is the straightforward console route. Steam is sensible when you have a 64-bit Windows PC, an XInput controller and a graphics card that meets the listing.
- Start with training modules. Use them to become comfortable with three-dimensional movement, melee and ranged attacks, sub-weapons, shielding and teleportation.
- Set the difficulty for your goal. Use Very Easy if you want a lower-pressure cinematic introduction or are learning VR movement; raise the challenge later if you want more demanding combat.
- Use the mini-map deliberately. High-speed fights can pull your attention away from objectives and off-screen threats. Check the map during transitions instead of waiting until you are lost.
- Keep Versus expectations separate from the story. Invite a second player for the documented two-player Versus mode, not for campaign co-op, and remember that VR does not support two players.
Common purchase mistakes and how to avoid them
- Buying the first game as a prerequisite: the available official information does not require it. Buy or play it for extra context, not because M∀RS is documented as inaccessible without it.
- Assuming VR is mandatory: standard PS4 and PC play are documented without a headset.
- Assuming every PC controller works: Steam specifies XInput. Use a compatible controller or confirm support before buying.
- Confusing Versus with co-op: two-player support is documented for Versus only.
- Expecting launch bonuses in a current copy: the holographic cover and patch were limited-time American launch items, with Brazil excluded.
- Treating minimum specifications as a performance guarantee: the GTX 680, 4 GB RAM and 64-bit Windows figures are storefront minimums. VR has the separate GTX 1060-or-higher guidance, and actual performance depends on the rest of the system and settings.
- Assuming a language list is universal: verify the storefront for your region because audio and subtitle availability can differ.
Who should play M∀RS?
M∀RS is a strong fit if you want a compact, cinematic robot-action game centered on fast movement, melee and ranged combat, and a single-player campaign. It also suits players who want optional VR presentation features rather than a VR-only title.
Think twice if your priority is campaign co-op, because the documented campaign is single-player, or if you need guaranteed current physical stock, pricing or launch packaging, none of which is established by the release announcements. PC buyers should also confirm the current Steam requirements and controller compatibility before committing.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
